Speaking after the match, the manager said: “That was the best we’ve played under me, especially in the second half.

“We created numerous opportunities and I believe we should have taken something out the game. But you don’t always get what you deserve.

“We were a little bit ragged in the first half but adjusted well in the second half. Playing against who I think will be the champions of this division, I thought we were fantastic. We played some very attractive football today and I thought the two boys up front were a real handful.

“I felt the difference boiled down to their manager and their players having spent a lot longer together. That was the key.”

Freedman refused to let the defeat dampen his spirits, citing the club’s progression on and off the field as a reason to be cheerful this weekend.

He said: “If we keep on performing the way we have been over the last three games then anything can be achievable.

“If you’re working towards success, it will come. When? I don’t know. But I think we’re on the right path.

“Is there progress? Yes there is. Is the club in a better position on and off the field? Yes it is. So you’ll see me smiling come Monday morning, ready to work.”